On December 13, Old Dominion University (ODU) witnessed a significant milestone as nearly 1,600 students graduated during the institution’s 143rd Commencement Exercises, held in two ceremonies at Chartway Arena.
The first ceremony, commencing at 9 a.m., celebrated a diverse group of graduates from various colleges including the Batten College of Engineering and Technology, College of Arts and Letters, College of Sciences, School of Cybersecurity, School of Data Science, and the School of Supply Chain, Logistics, and Maritime Operations. The second ceremony, which began at 12:30 p.m., recognized graduates from the Darden College of Education and Professional Studies, Ellmer College of Health Sciences, Ellmer School of Nursing, EVMS School of Health Professions, Strome College of Business, and the Joint School of Public Health, which ODU established in partnership with Norfolk State University. A highlight of the day was the first conferral of degrees to students from the Joint School of Public Health and the School of Supply Chain, marking a historic achievement for both programs as they transitioned into their official academic status.
President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D., expressed pride in the graduates, emphasizing that their journey from students to alumni signifies a new chapter in their lives. He encouraged the new graduates to cherish their connections to ODU and its community as they embark on their future endeavors.
The commencement ceremonies featured a keynote address by R. Bruce Bradley (MBA ’78, H.D. ’10), a seasoned public servant and former Rector of the ODU Board of Visitors. Notably, Bradley has held leadership roles in various community organizations, significantly contributing to the region’s development and well-being. His speech resonated with both celebration and inspiration, as he shared insights drawn from his extensive career in public service and the newspaper industry.
During the 9 a.m. ceremony, Bradley was honored with the Old Dominion University Presidential Medallion for Public Service, an accolade previously awarded to only two individuals. This recognition highlighted his profound impact on both the university and the broader community, reinforcing the values of leadership and service that ODU strives to instill in its students.
As ODU celebrates this momentous occasion, the future looks bright for its new alumni, who are poised to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields, embodying the spirit of Monarch Nation.